There are numerous ways for you as a parent to assist your child in developing a healthy, radiant smile. Creating a lunch menu that promotes better oral health is one way you can assist. Here are some lunchtime tips to promote the healthiest smile for your child!
1. Steer clear of sugary beverages, including those that are promoted as “healthy.”
Long-term consumption of sugar-filled beverages exposes kids to more sugar and acid, which can damage their teeth. To improve their oral health, try to cut back on or eliminate sodas, sports drinks, and high-sugar juices from their diet. One of the main sources of sugar for kids is sugary drinks, some of which are even marketed as “healthy drinks” like juice, sports drinks, or nutritional water. To educate yourself and your children, make sure to read the nutritional labels on beverages.
2. Bring water.
Water keeps saliva flowing, which naturally keeps teeth clean, and helps wash away food particles and harmful acids. Since water is the best beverage for teeth, we advise including it in your child’s lunch instead of any other. Additionally, avoid falling for nutritional fads. The majority of these “enhanced” water products are bad for your teeth and general health because they contain too much sugar.
3. Use caution when purchasing packaged snacks.
It’s not always the case that “healthy” snacks are the best for your teeth. Granola cereal, trail mix, and dried fruit may appear to be healthier choices, but they are frequently loaded with unnecessary extras. Granola can contain a lot of added sugar, and dried fruit actually adheres to teeth and feeds the bacteria that causes cavities. Avoid purchasing granola or health cereal that contains candy, chocolate chunks, or marshmallows. Seek out granola with more natural, whole ingredients, such as rolled oats and nuts, and a higher fiber content. Make sure your child brushes their teeth after eating any snacks that contain these substances.
4. Include more whole vegetables and fruits.
Whenever possible, include natural, whole fruits and vegetables in your child’s lunchbox. Try including tiny bits of celery or baby carrots with a nutritious dip like hummus in place of starchy snacks like crackers. Try packing fresh, fibrous fruit like apples, kiwis, or strawberries for dessert rather than a fake fruit snack. Fiber naturally removes food particles from teeth by scrubbing them away after a meal. You can help your child avoid too much sugar and maintain good dental hygiene while they’re away from home by substituting fibrous fruits and vegetables for sweets and starches.
5. Use nuts instead of chips.
Potato chips, crackers, and other starchy foods can become lodged in tiny spaces on the surface of teeth. When these foods are not properly brushed, they give sugar to bacteria that consume it, which eventually causes tooth decay. Pack nuts, which are high in fiber and nutritious protein, in place of chips.
6. Dietary decisions impact dental health
Your child’s diet has an impact on their teeth and overall oral health. Making a few minor, healthful adjustments can help your child’s diet, but you don’t have to cut out entire food groups. Brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups are the most crucial ways to take care of your child’s teeth, regardless of what they eat for lunch. To learn more about mouth-healthy diets and how your family’s diet can affect the condition and appearance of your smile, stop by our office.